Acute Dacryoa

Acute Dacryoa

denitis

Definition Acute inflammation of the lacrimal gland is a rare disorder characterized by intense inflammation and extreme tenderness to palpation.

Etiology: The disorder is often attributable to pneumococci and staphylo-cocci, and less frequently to streptococci. There may be a relationship between the disorder and infectious diseases such as mumps, measles, scar-let fever, diphtheria, and influenza.

Symptoms and diagnostic considerations: Acute dacryoadenitis usuallyoccurs unilaterally. The inflamed swollen gland is especially tender to palpa-tion.

The upper eyelid exhibits a characteristic S-curve (Fig. 3.12).

Differential diagnosis:

❖Internal hordeolum (smaller and circumscribed).

❖ Eyelid abscess (fluctuation).

❖ Orbital cellulitis (usually associated with reduced motility of the eyeball).

Treatment: This will depend on theunderlying disorder.Moist heat,disinfect-ant compresses (Rivanol), and local antibiotics are helpful.

Clinical course and prognosis: Acute inflammation of the lacrimal gland ischaracterized by a rapid clinical course and spontaneous healing within eight to ten days. The prognosis is good, and complications are not usually to beexpected.